Description
This one-pot beefaroni recipe is the ultimate comfort food — rich, cheesy, meaty, and ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, this easy dinner idea brings together tender elbow pasta, savory ground beef, and a creamy tomato-cheddar sauce that will instantly bring you back to your childhood. Whether you’re looking for quick meal prep options, cozy food ideas, or easy recipes the whole family will love, this beefaroni hits all the marks. It also freezes well, making it ideal for leftovers or make-ahead dinners. A top pick among easy dinner recipes and healthy(ish) comfort meals!
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
2 cups tomato sauce
2 cups beef broth
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (optional)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup milk
Instructions
1. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned. Drain excess grease if needed.
2. Add chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds more.
3. Pour in the tomato sauce and beef broth. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and dried herbs if using.
4. Add the uncooked elbow macaroni and stir to combine, ensuring the pasta is mostly submerged in the liquid.
5. Cover and simmer over medium-low heat for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
6. Reduce heat to low and stir in the milk and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the sauce is creamy and cheese is fully melted.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm and garnish with fresh parsley or extra cheese, if desired.
Notes
For best texture, use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded. It melts much better.
If the pasta soaks up too much liquid while cooking, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce.
To freeze, portion into airtight containers once cooled, and reheat with a splash of liquid for best consistency.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: beefaroni, one pot dinner, easy dinner recipe, pasta dish, comfort food